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accessAtlanta: Things to do in Atlanta

By The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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accessAtlanta is a new podcast that shares the best things to do, see, eat and experience in Atlanta. We’ll bring you the stories that make our eclectic city one of a kind, and take you behind the scenes in a town where we create movies, music and art making waves around the world. Every week, we’ll share with you some of the best places to eat, play, and live out loud in the ATL. Join us and let us be your guide to a city that we know best.

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CleanAtlanta and the Oscars

Atlanta will be represented well at the Oscars on Sunday. In this bonus episode, AJC reporter Jennifer Brett shares the nominations Georgia-filmed movies received, and gave background and tidbits about Atlanta-filmed "Black Panther," which is nominated for best picture.

Cyclorama is set to reopen at the Atlanta History Center on Feb. 22. In this episode, AJC reporter Bo Emerson shares the history of the painting as well as a conversation he had with Atlanta History Center historian Gordon Jones. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do in and around Atlanta over the next 10 days, including Alvin Ailey at the Fox Theatre and Jake Shimabukuro at City Winery.

In this episode, the AJC's Najja Parker sat down with Taraji P. Henson (Empire), producer Will Packer (Girls Trip) and director Adam Shankman (A Walk to Remember), to discuss their new film “What Men Want.” Henson, Packer and Shankman share the places they frequent when filming in Atlanta and discuss their legacies in the film industry.
Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do in and around Atlanta over the next 10 days, including The Wolves at Horizon Theatre and Trevor Noah at the Fox.

Atlanta will be well-represented in nominations across many categories at Sunday’s Grammy Awards. AJC music reporter Melissa Ruggieri and host Shane Harrison preview the show in the latest episode of accessAtlanta.

How did Atlanta do? Before the dust settles from Super Bowl 53, we recapped the game and festivities in Atlanta before focus shifts to the next NFL season and Super Bowl 54 in Miami. In this episode, AJC music reporter Melissa Ruggieri and Shane Harrison recap the events that took place throughout the week, the game, the halftime show and performances from Atlanta’s own.
Plus, Harrison shares things to do in and around Atlanta over the next 10 days, including Vince Staples at Tabernacle and the many love-themed theatre productions happening on Atlanta stages.

accessAtlanta has your 2019 guide to celebrating Black History Month in the city. In this episode, AJC Sepia editor Ernie Suggs shares things to do, venues to see and opportunities to learn more in Atlanta during Black History Month. Suggs also previews the paper’s upcoming month-long Black History Month Series, featuring profiles on notable figures, unsung heroes and cultural touchstones. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do over the next 10 days, like Emory Chamber Music Society of Atlanta's Pajama Concert and Atlanta Opera's Dead Man Walking.

The NFL, the Super Bowl and thousands of football fans will take over Atlanta next week for the biggest professional football game of the year. That means, the city will be buzzing with more activity than usual.
In this episode, AJC music reporter Melissa Ruggieri shares the keys to navigating Super Bowl 53 in Atlanta, including the things to do and concerts to attend. Not interested in football or large crowds? Ruggieri also shares a few tips for avoiding it all while still enjoying yourself. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including the Callanwolde Artist Market and “Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds”at Synchronicity Theatre.

When you search “things to do in Atlanta,” sometimes places you’ve been to countless times pop up. You’ve visited The King Center and Fox Theatre. You’ve stopped by the Atlanta Botanical Garden, the CNN Center and Six Flags. In this episode, AJC freelancer Toby Adeyemi shares the items on his Atlanta Bucket List – lesser-known places he’s visited in the last few months, where he’s had the most fun. Find out the places he’s gone, why he enjoys them and how you can get there. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including Tamborrada at Cooks & Soldiers and Cher at Infinite Energy Center.

In 2018, accessAtlanta released 44 episodes that gave listeners a front-row look at the best things to do, see, eat and experience in the city.
Our reporters chatted with Olympic athletes, world-famous entertainers and local entrepreneurs. Members of our team attended former president Jimmy Carter’s Sunday school class, Atlanta’s star-studded Black Panther premiere and live musical performances that don’t allow talking—or texting.
Our team visited a chimp sanctuary, provide food and beer guides, and kept you updated on “Hollywood of the South.”
We covered every corner of entertainment in Atlanta.
In this episode, AJC senior editor, Nicole Smith takes a look back to discuss her favorite episodes of the last year—the first year of the accessAtlanta podcast— and what to expect in 2019. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including Middleditch and Schwartz at the Tabernacle and Swan Lake at the Fox Theatre.

Tech-savvy, entitled, environmentally conscious, and diverse are some words used to define Millennials. There are various opinions on this sizable generation which is expected to outnumber Baby Boomers this year. You might even see headlines and articles blaming the generation for the decline of movie sales or doing away with golf. Millennials are people born between 1981 and 1996 according to the Pew Research Center. The AJC's Stephanie Toone, Zachary Hansen and former AJC reporter Becca Godwin chat about perceptions about Millennials, social media culture, and political engagement. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including Snoop Dogg at State Farm Arena.

AJC music reporter Melissa Ruggieri and long-time rock radio DJ for 97.1 The River, Kaedy Kiely, are bringing their behind-the-scenes conversations, about things like music, football, and movies, to the podcast world with 2 Girls Talking. On this episode of accessAtlanta, they chat about creating their joint podcast, some of the musical acts that they've interviewed over the years and their friendship. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including The Roots at the Coca-Cola Roxy.

Souper Jenny has become an Atlanta favorite since opening nearly 20 years ago, satisfying hungry locals with bowls of delicious goodness such as its beloved turkey chili and rotating seasonal offerings along with salads and sandwiches. The restaurant’s name is familiar to many, but owner Jenny Levison’s two-year-old The Zadie Project might be less familiar. Feeding the hungry is part of the project’s mission, but the nonprofit goes beyond providing those in need with homemade soup. It also works to educate people about urban farming, much of it done on the one-acre farm behind the cafe's Westside location, and healthy food preparations. AJC reporter Becca Godwin recently stopped by to find out more about The Zadie Project. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band at Infinite Energy Arena.

There are just 53 days until Super Bowl 53 kicks off at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium. And in just a few weeks, we'll learn which teams will take the field in the new stadium. AJC music reporter and avid football fan Melissa Ruggieri chats about concerts from artists such as Ludacris and Aerosmith, the food scene, and tips on getting around the city. Follow the AJC's Super Bowl coverage at ajc.com/53 for game-day mania. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including Winter Wonderland at Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

Atlanta poet Ryan Jones may have felt defeated coming off of the stage for night two of the 2018 National Poetry Slam in Chicago in August. His slam team Art Amok didn’t place as well as they’d hoped and Jones was on an emotional rollercoaster after learning a friend had just passed away. But as the saying goes, every cloud has a silver lining, and Jones reasoned if the team did well, his friend’s belief in him as a poet became real. In the end, the four-member team won the group piece finals and brought a renewed admiration for Southern artists.
Art Amok’s history goes back to the early 2000s when local poets Karen Garrabrant and Theresa Davis started carving out a space where women could take the lead in the poetry scene. Kimeko McCoy spoke with the poets about Atlanta’s 30-year slam poetry history and how it has changed with a new generation. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including Strand Ole Opry’s Country Christmas at the Earl Smith Strand Theatre.

Multitalented couple David and Tamela Mann have combined forces and released a joint project. Sharing their love story through an album, "Us Against the World: The Love Project" and a book, “Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage and Family," the couple hopes to inspire others by opening up in a new way. Known for their talents in the entertainment industry, it was only a matter of time until they decided to take their careers to new heights. The AJC’s Najja Parker spoke with the Manns about creating their joint project, having a blended family, and still being in love after 30 years of marriage. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including seeing Dru Hill at the State Farm Arena.

Sofar Sounds encourages people to abandon the status quo. Instead of the norm, the music events company wants folks to enjoy live shows in a new, experimental way. Music lovers don’t know the time or place of a live performance until a short time before it takes place. After all, the less you know, the more you'll want to seek, find and discover. The musical gatherings are smaller and intimate, yet the experience can shape into the moment of a lifetime. AJC reporter Becca Godwin explains that a major component of Sofar Sounds is silence. (Shhhhhhh.) There’s no talking during the show, and side conversations are taboo—and that includes texting. Just sit, listen, and get lost in great music by incredible musicians. Since the location could be anywhere, guests are asked to BYOB—bring your own booze. Listen to learn how to gain entry into one of our city’s most elusive musical experiences. Plus, host Shane Harrison reveals some fun things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including Elton John’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour at newly-renovated State Farm Arena.

There’s something special about experiencing live music. Not just the tunes. Not just the band. And not only the music-loving crowd. The venue shapes our experiences and how we enjoy live performances. Atlanta is filled with many music venues fans are sure to remember. From the small spots like Eddie’s Attic and Hell, Heaven, and Purgatory to the biggest names in town, such as newly-renovated State Farm Arena, music venues have permeated the city, most unique in their own right. AJC music reporter Melissa Ruggieri reveals her top picks for local music venues. Spoiler alert: the grimier, the better. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrors at the High Museum of Art.

Project Chimps, a 236-acre property in Morganton, houses more than 200 chimps that have been retired from research. For decades, the U.S. government supported the capture and breeding of chimps for biomedical research. The practice peaked during the AIDS epidemic when more than 1,000 chimps were living in research labs across the country. Project Chimps' goal is to allow the chimps to live the remainder of their lives as they wish. Built in two phases, the cost to renovate the former Dewar Wildlife Facility is over $10 million. And in 2017, annual operating costs were $1.5 million, with more than $700,000 going toward chimp care and programs. AJC features writer Nedra Rhone spoke with Ali Crumpacker, executive director, and Mike Seres, manager of chimpanzee socialization, about their love for animals, working at the chimp sanctuary, and gaining support for the facility. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including seeing Kamasi Washington at the Buckhead Theatre.

With a new season comes the renovated State Farm Arena — formerly known as Philips Arena. The $200 Million makeover — that started almost three years ago — makes the space more open, connected, and an exciting place for fans to experience basketball. From new upper-deck seating and party space featuring a Topgolf simulator to a unique premium space called Atlanta Social, there are several fun ways to watch the game. Men can even get a haircut and keep their eyes on the court at Killer Mike's Swag Shop. New food options are also available including Zac Brown's Social Club. AJC features writer Helena Oliviero was given a behind-the-scenes look before the renovations were complete. She spoke with chief operating officer of the Atlanta Hawks Basketball Club and State Farm Arena, Thad Sheely, and Executive Vice President and General Manager of State Farm Arena, Brett Stefansson about wanting to create a great night out for fans, the new layout of the arena, and the organization's partnership with State Farm. Helena even had a chance to experience the first home game in the Hawks' new home. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including the Suwanee Wine Fest.

Jeepers creepers. With Halloween right around the corner, Netherworld Haunted House has something special for horror fans at its new Stone Mountain location. There might be anywhere from hundreds to thousands of people in attendance and 200 people working per night. And 22 years later after opening, the company is still finding new ways to keep visitors frightened and entertained. This year's theme, "The Awakened" and its new haunted sci-fi theme, "Subject: UNKNOWN" will keep people on their toes. Creep lovers can even spend time playing "Escape the Netherworld" game. AJC digital producer Autumn Porter had a chance to stop by the new Netherworld Haunted House in Stone Mountain. She spoke with co-founder Ben Armstrong about coming up with different themes each year, the evolution of Netherworld, and there being something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including attending “Not About Heroes" at the Aris Theatre.

Attention authentic foodies and lovers of international cuisine. The AJC's 2018 Fall Dining Guide celebrates Buford Highway, a 30-mile roadway that spans from Buckhead to Buford and has more than 125 restaurants. So many options exist on the stretch that patrons can eat on the highway every day for a year without ordering the same thing twice.
In this episode, AJC food and dining editor Ligaya Figueras explores the Buford Highway of past and present, and former AJC dining editor John Kessler makes an appearance to chat about highlights from his years of dining there. Be sure to read the all-encompassing guide at ajc.com/dining-guide. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including the So So Def 25th Cultural Curren$y Tour at newly-renovated State Farm Arena.

Everything old is new again, including records. The way we listen to music has evolved over the last couple of decades. Even as music streaming services and digital downloads proliferate, younger generations are making vinyl the hottest new format. Folks of a certain age — fans who once moved from records to CDs —are returning to an old familiar groove, revisiting their favorite artists' discography again in the way that they first discovered them. The vinyl renaissance means that record stores are thriving, once again becoming places where people can gather to talk about music. AJC Radio/TV blogger Rodney Ho and AJC music reporter Melissa Ruggieri had a chance to visit several stores in metro Atlanta. On this episode, they chat about their memories with vinyl and take a trip to Atlanta’s Fantasyland Records. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including “Evil Dead The Musical.”

This week's story is about a unique journey, one less than 15,000 people have ever completed. Beginning on Springer Mountain, the Appalachian Trail is about 2,180 miles and runs through 14 states, spanning from northern Georgia to Maine. Hiking it is equivalent to climbing Mount Everest 16 times. AJC features writer Bo Emerson and CNN editor Andrew Iden have both hiked parts of the trail. In this episode, they come together to reminisce. You will hear from trail angels, hiking champions, and some of the journalists who participated in a remarkable 1995 collaborative through-hike. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including the 11th annual Taste of Chamblee.

Vroom... Vroom. Beep... Beep. Rev up your engines car fans and kick it into high gear as you make your way to The Atlanta Concours d’Elegance. A large variety of vehicles including exotics, muscle cars, and hot rods will be on display on Sept. 29 and 30 at Chateau Elan Winery and Resort. AJC senior editor Todd Duncan chats with co-founder Bill Wallet about the founding of the show. And trust us. There's more to the event than what meets the eye. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including Candler Park Fall Fest.

For those wanting to tap into their adventurous side, explore one of the most eclectic thruways in our area: Buford Highway. Travel down this multicultural stretch, and you'll be inundated with restaurants that boast of cuisine from across the world. AJC dining editor Ligaya Figueras connects with the founder of We Love BuHi Social Club to discover a new way to become immersed in food served along 10 miles of the extended highway. Plan to eat your way through Brookhaven, Chamblee, and Doraville with other Atlantans who enjoy the highway’s authentic flavors. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including IDLES at Masquerade.

Come mid-September, Atlanta’s most dedicated music fans will make their way to Piedmont Park—and for good reason. The city’s preeminent outdoor destination is home to our most prominent music festival—Music Midtown. For two days and with four stages, music fans will be energetic spectators of 30 popular musical acts, such as headliner Imagine Dragons, Grammy-winning rap artist Kendrick Lamar, hip-hop act Post Malone, rock band Fall Out Boy, and Atlanta’s own Janelle Monáe. AJC music reporter Melissa Ruggieri chats with the festival’s eminent producer, Live Nation President Peter Conlon, about Atlanta’s most diverse, eclectic, and prominent music event. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including the Fall Folklife Festival at the Atlanta History Center.

It's a big year for the ONE Musicfest. Going into its ninth year, the festival expands to two days with a wide range of acts for everyone to enjoy. Musical acts such as Nas, Big Boi, H.E.R., and George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic will hit the stage on Sept. 8 and 9 in Atlanta's Central Park. AJC music reporter Melissa Ruggieri talks to ONE Musicfest creator Jason 'J' Carter about wanting to create "an urban cultural Woodstock," and the obstacles he faced when first developing the concept for the festival. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including Music Midtown.

Superstar Bobby Brown is no stranger to seeing his life make headlines. This time, he's bringing his side of the story to your living room through 'The Bobby Brown Story' on Sept. 4 and 5. Playing on BET, the two-day, four-hour miniseries, will touch on the "Every Little Step" singer's rise to stardom and relationship with the late Whitney Houston. AJC radio/TV blogger, Rodney Ho, chats with the musician about the highly anticipated miniseries and singer/songwriter/producer, Babyface, about recording music for the show. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including the Atlanta Home Show and Outdoor Living Expo.

Time magazine has called Atlanta the Hollywood of the South. And with good reason. Filmmakers and actors are flocking to the city to be a part of Atlanta’s burgeoning film industry. With megahits like Marvel's “Black Panther” and FX’s “Atlanta” filmed here, TV and movie production has become a stable fixture for Georgia. AJC radio/TV blogger, Rodney Ho, chats with casting directors from Feldstein|Paris Casting about finding actors for Netflix's “Stranger Things,” “Ozark” and more, and how it feels to win an Emmy for their casting work. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including the AJC Decatur Book Festival.

Ask any Atlanta native to name a popular staple in their city and they’re apt to mention The Varsity. Founded in 1928, this year marks the 90th anniversary of the restaurant's opening. When people visit, they are reminded of a time in history when malt milkshakes and drive-in theaters were all the rage.
Celebrities have regularly indulged in popular menu items like The Varsity’s frosted orange and chili steak. Muhammad Ali, President Barack Obama, and both Bush 41 and 43 are few of the many iconic figures who've made their way through its doors. AJC dining editor, Ligaya Figueras, had a chance to chat with relatives of the founder about the establishment's history and what's next for the restaurant chain. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including the Grant Park Summer Shade Fest.

In less than 200 days, visitors from around the world will enjoy more than sports when they pour into Atlanta for Super Bowl 53. The city’s history and united spirit will be on full display through an artistic project called Off the Wall. Created by the City of Atlanta, the Super Bowl Host Committee and nonprofit WonderRoot, 30 murals will showcase Atlanta’s dedication to civil and human rights, with each piece unveiled one by one before the big game in February 2019. Spread throughout the city, the murals will highlight stories, issues and the progress of Atlanta’s communities. AJC digital intern, Tara Subramaniam, sat down with one of the painters and the executive director of WonderRoot to discuss the inspiration behind the initiative and its intended long-lasting legacy on our city. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including the Piedmont Park Arts Festival. For more on the AJC's Super Bowl coverage, check out ajc.com/53.

Atlanta’s Nappy Roots made some of the biggest hip-hop singles of the early 2000s. These days, the Grammy-nominated group is making more than music. Members of the rap quartet are behind a new brand of craft beer, with specialty beers bearing the names of their most memorable musical hits. Listen to AJC reporter Shelia Poole talk to the group about what inspired them to join the craft beer movement and what they enjoy best during the brewing experience. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including the 25th Annual Butterfly Festival in Dunwoody.

There are a few weeks left in the 2018 season for our city’s WNBA team, the Atlanta Dream. But as the season winds down, the team’s drive revs up as they work to score their way into the playoffs. AJC’s Bria Felicien chats with one of the Dream’s notable players, Angel McCoughtry. Listen as she talks about returning to the court, being a role model and setting her sights on the championship. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including R&B singer Janelle Monáe at the Tabernacle.

The countdown is officially on. There are just 200 days until Super Bowl 53 descends upon Atlanta. And fans are already gearing up for the kickoff. The big game hasn't been held in this city in nearly two decades.
The last time the city hosted the Super Bowl was in 2000, and once before in 1994. But a shiny new stadium makes Atlanta the perfect place for Super Bowl mania at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on February 3, 2019.
AJC music reporter (and avid football fan) Melissa Ruggieri talks about past half-time performances, her hopes for the Falcons, and the different ways that visitors can enjoy the city. For all things Super Bowl related, follow our coverage at ajc.com/53. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including the Great Southern Beer Fest.

Children are stepping into their own fairy tales this summer at the Children's Museum of Atlanta. Pages from the "The Amazing Castle" exhibit come to life as kids and their parents navigate their way through the museum. From creating your own dinner with "Kipper the Cook" to repairing iron tools with "Synge the Blacksmith," there are plenty of ways to live as a storybook character. For AJC features writer Helena Oliviero and her 11-year-old daughter, Izzy, fiction becomes reality as they are swept away to the fantasy land. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including seeing "Newsies" at the Aurora Theatre in Lawrenceville.

Gold, perhaps copper in color. Slightly chilled with a smattering of fruit or spice. Mmmmm…Nothing provides satisfaction like a cool, tasty beer during the scorching summer months. Local craft breweries are rising to the taste bud challenge, providing Atlanta with a sweet water experience that didn’t exist 20 years ago. AJC senior dining editor Ligaya Figueras chats with one of Atlanta’s premier beer columnists about what’s on the horizon for our city’s exploding beer scene. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including “Titanic the Musical” at Serenbe Playhouse.

Best known for his captivating role as Jamal Lyon on the hit TV drama “Empire,” actor Jussie Smollett is building a musical kingdom of his own. During a recent visit to Atlanta, the actor and singer gave us a taste of the soulful tracks from his debut album, “Sum of My Music.” In this episode, Smollett candidly describes his love affair with music, his appetite for collard greens, and the one character on “Real Housewives of Atlanta” he wants to meet. Listen to AJC’s Najja Parker’s fun-loving interview with Smollett, as he embarks on his next musical frontier. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including R&B singer Jill Scott at the Fox Theatre.

The hiatus is finally over. Country music duo Sugarland is coming home sweet home to Georgia. Originally from the A-T-L, the popular band is performing on tour together for the first time in years. And fans are greeting them with open arms. AJC music reporter Melissa Ruggieri talks to band members about their 2018 album, “Bigger,” ahead of their August performance in Duluth. Plus, Shane Harrison shares things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including the Roswell Summer Puppet Series.

More than 100 women will compete, but only one is crowned Miss Georgia. Rehearsals, appearances, workouts, and sponsor visits lead to a single, big moment—a night that could yield a life-long dream. AJC reporter Amanda Coyne describes how the South embraces pageant tradition, resulting in a Georgia woman competing in Miss America. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including Barbecue Nation at Atlanta History Center.

Two words: vroom, vroom. The Creepers Car Show drives onto the classic car scene once again this year in Marietta. These antique, rare machines are sure to impress. The charity event will show off vehicles at least 30 years old, with each car having its own unique story that car owners are ready to tell. AJC senior editor Todd Duncan talks about the beauties you’ll see at the event, and what it’s like to be a judge for the show. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including the 35th annual Virginia-Highland Summerfest.

An Atlanta entrepreneur has found his niche—historical antiques with a twist. James Freeman collects and sells oddities at Scott Antique Markets and local pop-up shops. Think letters from serial killers, decades-old Ouija boards, and original drawings by Robert Ripley, the founder of Ripley's Believe It or Not! AJC reporter Becca Godwin takes us in the world of rare, unique, antique, odd, and death-related collectibles. Disturbed yet? Wait until you hear from oddities dealer James Freeman of Freeman and Fugate Oddities Co. in Atlanta. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including the magical adventure of Peter Pan at Serenbe Playhouse.

At the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, American gymnast Laurie Hernandez won the hearts of many across the world. She danced. She flipped. She fearlessly competed on the world’s biggest stage for athletes. During her recent visit to Atlanta, senior features editor Nicole Smith asks the gymnast to describe how it feels to live a life saturated with adrenaline, competition, excitement and gold-medal success. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including the Candler Park Music and Food Festival.

Playwright Jiréh Breon Holder is making his mark on the Atlanta theatrical scene. In fact, he defines himself as an authentic “southern writer.” In this charming conversation, AJC reporter Najja Parker dives into the story, struggles, and triumphs of Holder as an artist. Listen to how the Morehouse grad found his way in theatre and continues to live out every writer's dream. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including The Championship Tour featuring Grammy awarding-winning rapper Kendrick Lamar.

Walk into your backyard and discover an entire world hidden in plain sight. A new IMAX movie at Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Atlanta encourages folks to explore an ecosystem of critters, plants, animals, and more. AJC reporter Gracie Bonds Staples talks about the fascinating 3D movie, “Backyard Wilderness,” and takes a tour of the Fernbank’s backyard with filmmaker Andrew Young. Plus host Shane Harrison shares things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including the Kirkwood Spring Fling.

Known for sparking dialogue across the country about American social and political issues, comedian and TV host W. Kamau Bell makes his way to Atlanta for his latest discussion. In a new episode of CNN’s “United Shades of America,” Bell uses local historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs)—Morehouse, Spelman, Morris Brown and Clark Atlanta—as the backdrop of his conversation about race. This week, AJC entertainment reporter Jennifer Brett visits Morehouse College for a one-on-one talk with the comedian about why he chose to highlight the HBCUs in Atlanta. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do during the next 10 days, including singer Anita Baker’s visit to Atlanta’s Fox Theatre.

In the sleepy Georgia town of Plains, there is a presence that feels undeniably presidential. Jill Vejnoska, the AJC’s authority on all things Jimmy Carter, takes you to Plains, where the former president and first lady still live. In this episode, you’ll hear the best excerpts of a Sunday school class recently taught by President Carter, and through sound resurfaced from our archives, learn what it takes to accommodate so many visitors who descend on the small town every week. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including the Shaky Knees Music Festival.

Robert Spano, the musical director of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, is set to retire in the coming years. The 2020-21 season will be his final curtain call. But not before leaving classical music lovers with something beautiful and melodic to remember. Although a man known for championing contemporary composers, he is also grounded in the classics. AJC features reporter Bo Emerson has a revealing interview with the music conductor whose career has spanned more than three decades. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including the Big Shanty Festival in downtown Kennesaw.

Atlanta’s food scene has transformed into a culinary delight. For folks in search of sumptuous flavors, you'll find unique experiences from across the world right in the heart of the city. In this episode, AJC dining editor Ligaya Figueras discusses international eats and treats that make Atlanta’s dining scene one of a kind. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including Freaky Friday, the Disney-based musical at Horizon Theatre.

With every beat, every note, and every sound, the drumline band for the Atlanta Braves plays their way into the hearts of Atlanta’s baseball fans. Meet the Heavy Hitters—24 drummers who captivate fans with a game day, musical performance that leaves onlookers entertained and feelin’ mighty good. In this episode, the AJC’s Jill Vejnoska gets to know the drummers and showcases what it’s really like to be a Heavy Hitter. Plus, host Shane Harrison shares things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including the 42nd Atlanta Film Festival.

For fans, it’s not just about the game. It’s about the experience. No one knows this better than AJC reporter—and Atlanta Hawks superfan—Helena Oliviero. In this episode, she takes us behind the scenes to know what the ultimate Hawks fan experience is really like at a basketball game. Plus, host Shane Harrison reveals some fun things to do in Atlanta during the next 10 days, including Dad’s Garage 2018 Baconfest.

Brooklyn may have made him, but Atlanta can certainly claim him. Local artist Jim Hill made his way to the A-T-L to become one of the city’s artistic gems. In a captivating interview with AJC’s Talk of the Town columnist Nedra Rhone, this mosaic artist describes becoming a prolific artist without first having paint or chalk. Hear how Rep. John Lewis inspired one of his most controversial pieces and his plans to make a difference for Atlanta’s homeless. Host Shane Harrison reveals some fun things to do in Atlanta over the next 10 days, including country singer Lee Ann Womack’s visit to City Winery.

Ryan Cameron is one of the most prominent hometown radio personalities in Atlanta history. In this extensive interview with AJC radio/TV blogger Rodney Ho, Cameron candidly shares why he is leaving the business he knows best to become a partner at a new Atlanta-based branding firm. Host Shane Harrison reveals some fun things to do in Atlanta over the next 10 days, including the Celebrating David Bowie tour.

In our first podcast, hear music reporter Melissa Ruggieri’s interview with John Driskell Hopkins of the Zac Brown Band. Be in the know about his solo project, due later this year. Host Shane Harrison will tell you about some fun things to do in Atlanta over the next 10 days, including the Atlanta Brunch Festival and the Southeastern Cowboy Gathering.

accessAtlanta is a new podcast that shares the best things to do, see, eat and experience in Atlanta. We’ll bring you the stories that make our eclectic city one of a kind, and take you behind the scenes in a town where we create movies, music and art making waves around the world. Every week, we’ll share with you some of the best places to eat, play, and live out loud in the ATL. Join us and let us be your guide to a city that we know best.